Professional Documents
Culture Documents
By
AN ESSAY SUBMITTED TO THE POSTGRADUATE INSTITUTE OF PALI AND BUDDHIST STUDIES, UNIVERSITY OF KELANIYA IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF ARTS
2006
Acknowledgement
I recall with gratitude the encouragement given and shown bymy teacher, Rev. Dr. Revatalankara Thera.
My very sincere gratitude goes to my parents, U Sein Nyan and Daw Hla Myint and my younger brother Mg Hla Soe Oo whose love and understanding me.
I must also my thanks to my laymen and laywomen as follows: (1) U Bo Khwae& Daw Khin Sein and Family ( Hlegu), (2) U Thein Htay& Daw Myint Kyee and Family (Hlegu), (3) U Kyaw & family (Yangon), (4) U Ko Myint & Daw Thann Myint and Family, (5) U Ye Minn Soe& Daw Ye Win, their daughter Ma Aye Aye Thant and Family (Yangon).
I am most thankful my laywoman Daw Thein Myint ( Aungyatanarpwint oil mail) and the members of her family ( Hlegu).
Finally, I am greatly indebted to my elder sister, Dr. Daw Aye Aye Myint (Malaysia) who support t me forever.
Rev. U. Agganana (Myanmar) Makutarama Myanmar Buddhist Temple, 284, Dematagoda Road, Colombo-09, Sri Lanka. Tel: 0094-77-6419564 Emails: agganana@yahoo.com agganana@gmail.com
Abbreviation
AD ME : : Latin anno domini Myanmar Era
Contents
Acknowledgement--------------------------------------------------------------------------------A Contents--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------B Abbreviation---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------D Introduction--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Chapter- 1 Theravada Buddhism during the Reign of King Alaungpaya---------- 3 1:1 The Biography of King Alaungpaya (U Aung Zeya) ------------------ 3 1:2 Records of King Alaungpaya's Meritorious Deeds--------------------- 3 1:3 Buddha Sasana during the Reign of King Alaungpaya---------------- 4 1:4 Offering Titles and Emblems to Prominent Sayadaws-----------------5 1:5 King Alaungpaya& Atin Ayon Conflict--------------------------------- 5 1:6 Literatures Emerged during the Reign of King Alaungpaya---------- 7 1:7 Well-known Sayadaws during the Reign of King Alaungpaya------- 8 1:8 Situations of Other Religions --------------------------------------------- 9 1:9 Conclusion-------------------------------------------------------------------10 Chapter - 2 Theravada Buddhism during the reign of King Naungdawgyi--------11 2:1 The Biography of King Naungdawgyi-----------------------------------11 2:2 Buddha Sasana during the Reign of King Naungdawgyi--------------11 2:3 Taungtwin Sayadaw---------------------------------------------------------12 2:4 Conditions of Other Religious---------------------------------------------13 Chapter- 3 Theravada Buddhism during the Reign of King Hsinbyushin----------14 3:1 The Biography of King Hsinbyushin--------------------------------------14 3:2 Records of King Hsinbyushin's Meritorious Deeds----------------------14 3:3 Buddha Sasana during the Reign of King Hsinbyushin-----------------15 3:4 King Hsinbyushin's Donations at Shweseegon and Shwedagon -------16 3:5 Well-known Sayadaws during the reign of King Hsinbyushin---------17 3:5:1 Shin Saradassi (1065 -1129 ME) -------------------------------17 3:5:2 Shin Gunacara (1080) -------------------------------------17
Chapter- 4 Theravada Buddhism during the Reign of King Singu-------------------19 4:1 The Biography of King Singu----------------------------------------------19 4:2 Records of King Singu's Meritorious Deeds-----------------------------19 4:3 Ending the Conflict of Atin-Ayon -----------------------------------------20 4:4 Kyeekanshingyi (1119-1175 ME) -----------------------------------------22 Chapter -5 Conditions of Other Religious & Missionary during the First Konbaung Dynasty-------------------------------------------------------23 Chapter- 6 Theravada Buddhism of Neighboring Countries during the First Konbaung Dynasty-----------------------------------------25 Conclusion------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 27 Bibliography----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28
Introduction
What matter it is, animate or inanimate, every designation has its own chronicle. Some are great, extraordinary and splendid, however, some are not. In the same way, Buddha Sasana encountered both success and failure. Before revealing the Theravada Buddhism in First Konbaung Era, it is needed to state Nyaungyan Era and early Konbaung Era. It was the time when
Mahadhammarajadhipati, the last king of Nyaungyan Dynasty, ruled the country. After the king had been captured by Binnyardala, the mighty Mon king, the situation of the country was in splinter groups and people behaved in unruly manners. In southern Myanmar, the Mon were so powerful that Taunggnu, Pyay and Ava were captured. Taninthari coastal region was frequently attacked by Thais. Moreover, British Colonialists stationed their troops in Haigyi Island at the mouth of Pathein River. French Colonialists were also meddling in Hanthawadi and Thanlyin. In Rakhine, king Candavijaya (1071-1192ME) defended against the invasion of Mago kings from India. Similarly, Manipurakase made incursions frequently in northern Ava. After Gwae Shan, one of Shan groups had enthroned Gunnaeain as a king; an independent state was founded in eastern Ava. Despite the above complicated situations, Myanmar led by U Aung Zeya from Shwebo were gathering weapons and soldiers to establish Third Myanmar Nation whilst they had dealings with Gwae Shan and Heads of Mon tactfully and sharply. At the same time, majority of Mon troops were withdrawn from upper Ava as Thai invaded Taninthari coastal region again. As a result, that was the greatest opportunity for U Aung Zeya and his followers. Therefore, Myanmar troops led by U Aung Zeya could easily annihilate Mon's garrison and recapture Ava from Mon. In accord with the victory, U Aung Zeya not only became powerful but he was also awed by Shans from eastern region. Moreover, he was automatically a savior for the ones in lower Myanmar. In that way, U Aung Zeya was able to found Third Myanmar Nation in a very short time. There were eleven kings in Konbaung Dynasty. They were:
1. King Alaungpaya(U Aung Zeya) 2. King Naungdawgyi 3. King Hsinbyushin 4. King Singu
5. King Phaungkarsar Maung Maung (7-days) 6. King Bodawphayar 7. King Bagyidaw 8. King Tharrarwaddy 9. King Pagan 10. King Mindon 11. King Thibaw (1143-1181ME) (1782-1819AD), (1181-1199ME) (1819-1837 AD), (1199-1208ME) (1837-1846AD), (1208-1214ME) (1846-1852 AD), (1214-1240ME) (1853-1878 AD), (1240-1247ME) (1878-1885 AD)
Hence, Konbaung Dynasty lasted one hundred and thirty three years from 1114ME to 1247ME (1752-1885AD). Among Konbaung kings, the period from King Alaunpaya to King Phaungkarsar Maung Maung lasted twenty-nine years and it was regarded as First Konbaung Era. The rest one hundred and four years from King Bodawpaya to King Thibaw-was described as Second Konbaung Era. In compiling the essay '' A Study of Theravada Buddhism in First Konbaung Dynasty in Myanmar", Sasana history will be mainly described among other happened events of First Konbaung Era. According to the word "Rajapadhanam'', the flourishing of Sasana relies on the Heads of State who rule the country. If the ruler encourages the Sasana, it will be prosperous in that country. If not, Sasana will be flourished. Therefore, four Kings of first Konbaung Era will be chronicled in serial order and the progression of Sasana during their reigns, the retrogression of Sasana, the King's activities for the sake of Sasana, famous Theras, Buddhism of contemporary countries and invasion of other religions were significantly compiled in this essay.
Chapter - 1
Theravada Buddhism During in the Reign of King Alaungpaya
1. Thaiktinthway, Nagabo. "Ratanarsikha Maharajavam," page 27-29. Maungmaungtin, U. "Konbaungchat," volume 1, page 327. Nyomya. "Konbaungsharpuntaw, " page 9.
5. Building Jinaaungchar Shwebumsar Stupa at Ta Gaung city, 6. Building a Stupa at the auspicious place named Nat Kyan of the royal palace, 7. Building the stairways at Shwedagon Pagoda, 8. Building the rest house at Shwedagon Pagoda, 9. Building a Stupa at the northeast corner of Ratanasinkha city, 10. Building the monastery with a three- tiered roof at that Stupa and 11. Building Golden rest house at Shwe Paw Kyon Region. Moreover, he ordered to renovate the damaged stupas along Irrawaaddy River, in Sitkai, Ava, Pyay and Hansawaddy by granting emolument in cash as well as kind artisans.1
1.
Kelasa,Ashin. "Sasanavam Bhwattansiketawmyarthamine," page 322. 2. Maungmaungtin, U. "Konbaungchat," volume 1, page 67.
1. Kelasa,Ashin. "Sasanavam Bhwattansiketawmyarthamine," page 21. 2. Maungmaungtin, U. "Konbaungchat," volume 1, page 240. 3. Ibid, page 291.
Since 1060 ME (2242 Sasana Era), the separation of Atin Gaing and Ayon Gaing had been happened during the reign of the king. That conflict could not be solved till the reign of King Alaungpaya.1Atin Gaing means the sect of Buddhist monks accept the practice of robbing informally, leaving the right shoulder bare, when going outside the confines of the monastery. They were the people of immoral rectitude. Ayon Gaing means the sect of Buddhist monks who accept the practice robbing formally when going outside the confines of the monastery. This is now the accepted practice. King Alaungpaya offered the title " Mahaatulayassamahadhammarajaguru '' to Ashin Atulayassa from Uship village in Dipeyin city. That Sayadaw became the member of Atin Gaing in separating Atin Gaing and Ayon Gaing.* The members of Ayon Gaing led by Ashin Suzata submitted to the king that all Sangha had to wear the robe formally when entering to the village. Sayadaws from Atin Gaing led by Ahin Atulayassa, however, refuted that the conflict had been over. Hence, King Alaungpaya promulgated that there were several cases concerning with monarchy to be settled as the nation's affairs were complicated. After that, he would solve the matter in connection with Sasana. Moreover, the king announced that all the Sangha who lived in this nation must obey Ashin Atulayassa. This edict explained that the king did not realize Dhammakamma (Vinaya). In the other way, it is supposed the king publicized that edict to restore the law and order of the nation. Despite the king's announcement, some Sayadaws of Ayon Gaing did not follow it. As a result, Atulayassa summoned two order monks and made them carry sand. While carrying sand, they called upon Lokapaladevas to bear witness that they were treated unjustly. At that very moment, the sky was suddenly full of dark clouds and both Atulayassa's monastery and the king's palace were hit by thunder.2 History researchers remarked that event was the omen before marching to Thai.3 There was an old monk named Ashin Munindaghosa of Pukhamgyi city who was proficient in literacy. He did not follow
1. Sanvarabhivamsa,Ashin. "Buddha Naingngantaw ," volume 3, page 78. * Vamsamalar treatise showed that both Atin & Ayon are Dhammavadi and they are varied in teaching novices. 2. Rajinda, Ashin. "Sasanabahusutapakasan," page 118 3. Maungmaungtin, U. "Konbaungchat," volume 1, page 305.
Atin Gaing. When the king found out about him, he was invited and let him meet with the Sayadaws of Atin Gaing at Sudhamma rest house. They did not discuss with him according to Buddha's Teaching. They forced him to be the member of Atin Gaing. At that time, Ashin Munindaghosa squatted among the Sangha paying homage to the Buddha Image and recited "Aham bante yava jivitapariyosana..na vijahissami ''. That Pali meant that he would not abandon the Vinaya and he would sacrifice his life instead of following Adhammavadi. Hence, it is observed that king Alaungpaya had less interest in religion as there were complicated affairs of nation. As soon as the king had heard about Ashin Munindaghosa, he was deported. In other country, he continued counseling to wear the robe formally. Therefore, the king invited him again. He considered that he was about to be killed by the king. Thus, he left the monkhood in order that he did not want the king to gain the dept of sins if he was sentenced to death as a monk who exactly obeyed Vinaya.1 It is obvious that the Sangha protected both Pariyatti and Patipatti Sasana in line with Dhammakamma without considerating the king and even their lives. King Alaungpaya imprisoned him and decided to judge according to Buddha's Teaching after he had come back from Thai. Unfortunately, the king passed away on his way back to the palace. Hence, the conflict between Atin and Ayon was not finished during the reign of king Alaungpaya.
Nissayahaung in 1115 ME and Ashin Saddhamajota Thero wrote Buddhavamsa Pali Nissaya haung in1122 ME. These were the evidences of Sasana propagation in the reign of King Alaungpaya.2 In 1750 AD, Sunetar Sayartaw compiled Manuyinn Dhammathat as the
king asked him to write.1Emerging such kind of literature was incredible by the time there was the conflict between Atin and Ayon.
(3) Shwe U Mhin Sayadaw (1075-1135 ME) He was born at Tatsar village near Ava. At the age of 16, he studied at Aungmyinsanlut monastery in southern Innwa. Although Tatsar village Headman asked him to write the answers of Bhuridatzatpaungpyot, he could not do it because of Mon-
1. Aung Than Tun,U. "Khetlaykhet Myanmar's Law," page 85 2. Hlathamein. "Ganthavan Puggokyawmyar Athuppatti," page 20 3. -----------lbid---------------------------------- page 25
Myanmar Conflict. He could compile it when king Alaungpaya was pinnacle in ruling the nation. The king offered him the title of Tilokabhilankara. However, it was finished after king Naungdawgyi had ascended the throne.1 (4) Taungtwin Minkyaung Sayadaw (1086-1124 ME) He was born at Taungtwingyi during the reign of king Taninganwe. He was known as Minkyaung Sayadaw as U kwet Phyu who got the title of lakyatapana and Zeyanandaraja, revered him. He compiled Hitasiddhikyam and the answer of Kantawminkyaung Mettasaar.2 Those above prominent Sayadaws were well-known in connection with Vinayas and Literature in the period of king Alaungpaya.
1. Pemaungti,U. "History of Myanmar literature," page 152. 2. -------------lbid------------------ page 153. 3. Bakhin,U, "Naingngancharsasanaphyu Athinaphwelmyar," page 11. 4. Kyee,U. "Myanmar Rajavam," page 131.
1:9 Conclusion
It is doubtless to say that king Alaungpaya was the strong Theravada Buddhist. As he was not only organizing the country to be united and expanded but also taking care of social matters, he could not afford to propagate Theravada Buddhism properly and widely. If Head of State encourages the Sasana, it will be steadfast forever. If not, Sasana will be faded away. Moreover, the conflict between Atin and Ayon could not be solved. However, King Alaungpaya was able to make the citizens to adhere to Five Precepts. He also gave support to outstanding Sayadaws in Patiyatti and Patipatti. Besides, King Alaungpaya built many stupas, monasteries and rest houses. In considering above meritorious deeds, it is true that Theravada Buddhism hand flourished. Although other religions were introduced by the alien merchants, it is observed that no Myanmar citizen transferred to other religious. There were evidences proved that everybody could worship freely what they believed. Nonetheless, Theravada Buddhism flourished prosperously due to King Alaungpaya's encouragement and effort of the Sangha in learning Tipitakas.
Chapter - 2
Theravada Buddhism during the Reign of King Naungdawgyi
not settled during the reign of king Alaungpaya. All in all, the emergence of Taungtwin Sayadaw witnessed that Theravada Buddhism flourished prosperous all over the nation. 1
1. --------lbid------------page 346. 2. Hlathamein. "Ganthavan Puggokyawmyar Athuppatti," * There is another version that he died at the age of 38.
page 95-8.
Mutthaw in the north of Sagaigyi. His possessions and relics were enshrined in that stupa.
Chapter - 3
Theravada Buddhism during the Reign of King Hsinbyushin 3:1 The Biography of King Hsinbyushin
King Hsinbyushin to-be was born at dawn on Sunday, 13th waxing of Warkhaung, 1098 ME. He was the second son of King Alaungpaya. His childhood name was Maung Ywa. After king Naungdawgyi had passed away in 1125 ME, he ascended the throne at the age of 27 years and 4 months old. His son, King Singu became the Crown Prince. In 1126 ME, the king attacked Manipurakathe and captured the nation. These were four wars between China and Myanmar. The king ruled to the palace from the Royal ship on Sunday, 9th waning of Nayon, 1138 ME. The next day, the king passed away. He had 18 sons and 23 daughters altogether.1
(9) Kyawaungsanlwut Golden monastery with side monastery at the southwest of Mahamuni Pagoda, (10) Renovating Bo-U summit stupa at the north of Pyay, gilding and donating new Golden Umbrella, (11) Donating new Golden Umbrella at Shwedagon Pagoda, (12) Aungmyaysanlwut Golden monastery with 40 side monasteries at the northwest of Ngathatgyi Stupa, west Sagai at the north of old monastery of Taungphilar Sayadaw, (13) Building Shwepyisitoo stupa at the east of Aungmyaysanlwut Monastery. With reference to above meritorious deeds, it is obvious that Theravada Buddhism flourished successfully.1
able to nurture Good deeds, Morality and Meditation. If so, Theravada Buddhism will be flourished and wish-to become Lord Buddha- will be fulfilled''. King Hsinbyushin built monasteries, stupas and moat around the capital.1 Hence, Theravada Buddhism during the reign of king Hsinbyushin.
3:5:1 Shin Saradassi (1065 -1129 ME) Shin Saradassi was born in Pukhangyi Township in 1065 ME. He passed away in 1129 ME.1 He was one of the disciples of Shin Pannasara from Ngamyhar Township. He was outstanding at literary work. He was also a recluse. As king Hsinbyushin revered him, he was known as Pubbaryon Sayadaw. It is said that king Alaungpaya had invited him respectfully and listened to his sermon before the king had marched to Bago. He compiled eight treatises. They were: (1) Manidipaka, (2) Dvarakathatika, (3) Gullatthadipani, (4) Visuddhimagga Ganthi, (5) Nissaya of Netti Pali, (6) Nissaya of Suttanipata, (7) Silakkhandha Ganthi, (8) Dhatukathamulathhikayojana.2
)*
He was born at Ngasinyaing village in southern Ava, in 1080 ME. After first presiding monk at Kyawaungsanthar monastery with 100 side monasteries, he had died; he resided at that monastery which was donated by king Hantharwaddyyut. Thus, he was well-known as second Kyawaungsanthar Sayadaw. He was proficient in literary work and he owned incisive wit. He compiled Voharatthapakasani which explains the meaning of
1. In Sasavansadipani, it is recorded that Sayadaw was born in 1065 ME and died in 1135 ME. In Minhla Sirisihasu record, it is said that Sayadaw died in 1129 ME. 2. Hlathamein. "Ganthavan Puggokyawmyar Athuppatti," page 21. * No record for the year that he died.
vocabulary in Myanmar Literature. Therefore, he was very famous for that treatise. Other treatises that Sayadaw compiled were: (1) Magadha Abhidhan Tika Nissayahaung (1148), (2) Vuttodaya chan Nissaya Nankyal (1151), (3) Vamsadipani. 1
1. Hlathamein. "Ganthavan Puggokyawmyar Athuppatti," page 25-6. Pemaungti,U. "History of Myanmar literature," page 163.
Chapter - 4
Theravada Buddhism during the Reign of King Singu
dhammarajadhiraja- guru and was donated Mingalar shwebon Monastery in the same year,
1. Thaiktinthway,Nagabo, " Ratanasinkha Konbaung Maharajavan Akyan," page 27. Kyee,U. "Myanmar Rajavam," page 125.
(3) In 1139 ME, Ratanasanlwet Monastery was built at the place of Kyautsankataw of Watchat village near Irrawaddy River. Chief Queen donated that monastery to Minbhu Sayadaw who attained the title of Kalyanalokacintabhidhajamahadhammarajadhirajaguru, (4) On Kasone, 1140 ME, Mahamingalashwebonngathat Monastery was built with 12 side monasteries and library at the place of Old Moethi Monastery at the south of Innwa. It was donated to Thantapin Sayadaw who attained the title of Tipitakalankarasami Mahadhammarajadhirajaguru, (5) In 1141 ME, Shin Pannarama or Taungbhiluu Sayadaw was offered the title of Pannajota Jambudipadhaja Mahadhammarajadhirajaguru and was donated Bikeman Shwebon Monastery built by Mahadanvan, (6) Sister of Mayor of Kanni built Ratanarshwebon Monastery and it was donated to Minnywar Sayadaw who attained the title of Jambudipa Siri Anantadhaja Mahadhammarajadhirajaguru in the same year, (7) In1141 ME, Lokasaraphu Stupa was newly built and gilded, (8) Near that monastery, Bonkyawwayyam Monastery was built and donated to Sonetar Sayadaw who attained the title of Narindabhidhajamahadhammarajadhirajaguru, (9) Shwebonbhikman Monastery was built at the place of old Wayyambonsar Monastery and it was donated to Bonsan sayadaw, (10) Mingalabonkyaw Monastery was built on the land of old Kyatsonkhinn Monastery, Innwa and it was donated to Saku Sayadaw, Shin Saddhamapala, (11) Minister of Warrior named Thatoeminngyi built Bonkyawsanthar Monastery at Sintal village at the west of Innwa and it was donated to Katoe Sayataw, (12) On second waning of Tapottwe, 1141 ME, Hantharwayyam Monastery was donated to Minnkyaung Sayataw. That monastery was built by Ngwekhonvan.1
treatise that explained the decision in connection with Atin Gaing in Pali, Commentary and Sub-commentary. Atin Gaing submitted it King Singu. At that time, the King dreamed. At that dream, the king of Celestial Beings told the king to excavate the Pada Stupa at the bank of Nanmada River in Aparanta Division and a monk would show the way. That was the first step toward the Ending of Atin-Ayon Conflict. Due to that dream, the king moved to water palace at the northeast of Ratanaura Ava and Lived there with Shin Nandamala of Salin Township. Shin Nandamala taught the king about the decision of Ayon Gaing and Pali, Commentary and Sub-commentary in connection with Ayon Gaing. When the king was proficient in that subject, he became to realize that Tipitakas recommended the Ayon Gaing, not the Atin Gaing. Then, famous Sangha from both Gaings were gathered at the Palace and the king let them recite the Tipitakas in line with their faith. At that time, members of Atin Gaing had none to recite but the members of Ayon Gaing. Therefore, they confessed that what they believed was according to the leading of Atin Gaing's leaders. Later, they joined Ayon Gaing as the king promulgated that all Sangha must wear the robe formally when going outside the confines of the monastery and they must discipline the novices to do. Although Atin-Ayon Conflict started since the reign of the king who donated the Manaungratanar Stupa in 1060 ME and it had not been ended up to the reigns of seven kings, it was ended during the time of king Singuu in 1138 ME. The Conflict lasted seventy eight years.1 King Singu built Bonkyawwayyam four-tiered monastery with two buildings with tiered roof at the east of Lokatharafu Stupa and it was donated to Shin Nandamala. Sayadaw was offered the title of Narindabhidhaja Mahadhammarajadhirajaguru, too. Shin Nandamala was the descendant of Chappada Gaing of Bagan. He was proficient in Tipitas. Since he was young monk, he compiled Sasanasuddhidipakakyam, Mahavaggatthakatha Nissaya of Suttanta Pitaka, Suttasangahanissaya and Vinayavinicchayanissaya.2
1. Rajinda,Ashin. "Sasanabahusutapakasani, " page 123-6. 2. Dhammathingyan, Maha. " Sasanalankara Satam," page 190.
Chapter- 5
Conditions of Other Religious & Missionary during the First Konbaung Dynasty
From 1554 to 1557 AD, during the reign of king Bayintnaung, there had been a French Priest in Bago according to the record. He was called Pierre Bonfer and he tried to propagate Christians. After Pierre Bonfer had returned, there was no missionary for a century. In 1686 AD, a Myanmar envoy arrived at Ayuddhaya and met with French Priest named Mgrlaneau. He promised the Priest that he would protect Christians in Bago and agrees to transfer the French Priests named Genoud and Joret to the missionary in Thai as they were arrested by Myanmar. As soon as the envoy arrived back to Bago, Myanmar did according to his promise. Moreover, they were allowed to build a Church in Bago and in 1690 AD, Le Pentecote festival was even allowed to hold at that church. However, three years later, Myanmar misunderstood that those missionary were spies from Thai. They were summoned to Ava Palace and they apologized to the King in February/ March, 1693 AD. After the above event, no French missionary propagated in Myanmar up to the late nineteen century. In 1721 AD, Italian started Christian missionary again.1 In 1756 AD (1117 ME), French representative Bauno and other French leaders were arrested when king Alaung paya captured Thanlyin. English were not arrived. At that moment, two French worships arrived at Thanlyin so as to help the Mon. Thus, the king attacked and captured the ships and then Bauno and other French leaders were sentenced to death. Their relatives and arrested Caucasians were sent to Roman Catholic villages and the king allowed them to worship at the church. It is observed that those Caucasians served on
the king's artillery.1 In 1765 AD, Consul of French-East Asia Company from Mondishari sent Lefevre to Bago. As soon as he arrived at Bago, he met with Bago governor. After that he traveled to Ava and met with King Hsinbyushin. He submitted a report to the Consul on 28th, April, 1768 AD. The king granted him to build a 156 feet wide building and ships. He was granted the amnesty. Moreover, Christian missionaries were allowed to propagate their religion. That notification was sent to the office of Sir Gregoire and that became the documentary evidence for two nations.2 In 1769 AD, a seminary was built at Minhla for training Myanmar Christian Priests. Father Carpani went to Rome and printed the report of Roman Catholic in Myanmar in1774AD and first Myanmar book was printed. Other Myanmar manuscripts were also given to Vatican.3 Because of Milard's effort, Percoko, French Priest got the opportunity to propagate their religion legally.4
2. Kyee,U. "Myanmar Rajavam," page 131. 1. Khinmyakyuu,Dr, "Konebaungkhet French-Myanmar Satsanyay," page 26-7. 2. Bakhin,U, "Naingngancharsasanaphyu Athinaphwelmyar," page 13-4. 3. Khinmyakyuu,Dr, "Konebaungkhet French-Myanmar Satsanyay," page 27.
Chapter - 6
Theravada Buddhism of Neighboring Countries during the First Konbaung Dynasty
Theravada Buddhism proliferated prosperously in First Konbaung Dynasty. It is observed that there was the propagation of Theravada Buddhism in contemporary nations of First Konbaung Dynasty. In Indonesia, Theravada Buddhism flourished successfully in 8th Century during the reign of Selindara kings, in Sumatra 14th Century and in Java 15th Century, respectively. After the invasion of Muslim Kings in 16th Century, Theravada Buddhism vanished into thin air in Indonesia. Hence, it is obvious that there was no Sasana in Indonesia in about First Konbaung Dynasty.1 Malaysia was invaded by Muslim kings as well and Buddhism became faded. Therefore, there was no prominent progress of Sasana in Malaysia.2 Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism had influenced in Cambodia. In 12th Century, a Theravada Buddhist monk arrived at Cambodia and preached and distributed Theravada Buddhism. As Khamar Kings revered that monk, they gave support Theravada Buddhism. From that time onward, majority of people believed in Theravada Buddhism. In 13th Century, Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism Disappeared in Cambodia. By the time Cambodia established connection with Sri Lanka, one of Theravada Buddhist Nations, in 14th Century, Theravada Buddhism became proliferated incomparably in Cambodia. Thailand was also Theravada Buddhist Nation. It can be supposed that Nakhumpathum region was one of Suvannabhumi regions where King Asoka had sent Buddhist Missionary. However, it can be said that Theravada Buddhism reached Thai about 250 years
1. Kolay, U. "Propagation of Buddha Sasana around the world, Vol-1/2", page 9. 2. ---------------------------Ibid----------------------------------- page13-16.
after Lord Buddha had attained Nibbana though there was no evidence. The king who founded Ayuddhaya ruled Thailand, Cambodia and parts of Malay Peninsular. Stupas, temples, lakes and monasteries were built in Ayuddhaya. That city was captured by Myanmar and ruined in 1767 AD. Therefore, Theravada Buddhism flourished prosperously in Thailand during First Konbaung Era.1 Similarly, Theravada Buddhism proliferated in Sri Lanka and Lao. As Hinduism over whelmed thoroughly, Theravada Buddhism vanished in India and Nepal. Mahayana Buddhism propagated in China, Korea and Japan. In First Konbaung Era, Theravada Buddhism did not proliferate in western countries but in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Lao and Cambodia.2
Conclusion
First Konbaung Dynasty lasted twenty-nine years- from King Alaungpaya to King Phaungkarsar Maung Maung. Almost all of the kings gave support to Sasana very well. With reference to ancient chronicles, it is observed that Heads of religious order were assigned and Mahadanvan were also appointed with the help of Sayadaws. Conflict between Atin-Ayon had started since Nyaungyam Era. During the reign of king Alaungpaya, the king revered Atula Thero, member of Atin Gaing. Thus, Atin Gaing was very powerful. Though Taungtwin Sayadaw, member of Ayon Gaing, was revered by king Sitgai, that conflict was not ended because of the king's ineffective management. King Hsinbyushin did not afford to end the conflict, too. By that time king Singu ruled the nation, the conflict was ended and pure Theravada Buddhism influenced the entire nation. Hence, Buddha Sasana was pure and steadfast in First Konbaung Era but the conflict. There was no one in First Kongbaung Era who transferred to other religions. The rulers encouraged Sasana to be able to proliferate by supporting the Sangha with four thingsmonasteries, robes, foods and Medicines. As s matter of fact, it is doubtless to say that Theravada Buddhism flourished prosperously and splendidly in First Konbaung Dynasty.
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